Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Lupus, also known as systemic lupus erythematosus, is a chronic autoimmune disease. This means the body’s immune system, which is designed to attack infection, attacks itself instead. Lupus can be difficult to diagnose. The symptoms vary greatly from person to person and from one flare-up to the next. Symptoms of lupus can range from mild to serious and include:

• Painful or swollen joints
• Skin rash
• Photosensitivity
• Hair loss
• Oral ulcers
• Fatigue

Lupus is a rare condition with a strong genetic component that tends to at ages 15 to 45, though it can affect people of any age. It strikes more women than men.

Treatments We Offer

Lupus can be a mild disease but it can also be a severe disease. The first step in making the diagnosis is also establishing which organ systems are involved. The most common treatment is the use of antimalarials medications that have been shown to reduce the rate and severity of flare-ups. Other therapies will depend on the organ system involvement.

Why Mount Sinai

The rheumatologists at Mount Sinai have extensive experience and expertise in diagnosing and managing lupus and can provide an integrative care together with other subspecialities as needed for individual cases.